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Board authorizes up to 260 new light‑rail vehicles from Siemens; supervisors applaud but note funding must be phased
Summary
The Board authorized a long‑term procurement program with Siemens to replace and expand Muni’s light‑rail vehicle (LRV) fleet. Supervisors praised the purchase as critical to improving transit reliability but stressed the contract will be funded in phases and requires future budget commitments.
The Board of Supervisors authorized a resolution to procure up to 260 light‑rail vehicles, spare parts and related services from Siemens Industry Inc. in an amount not to exceed approximately $1.2 billion over a 15‑year term.
Supervisor Scott Wiener, who introduced the item, described the procurement as “a big step forward for Muni and for public transportation in San Francisco.” Wiener detailed operational problems with the current LRV fleet: frequent breakdowns, insufficient numbers to replace damaged vehicles and service gaps. “Our light rail vehicle fleet is not even close to up to the task,” Wiener told the board.
Supportive remarks came from colleagues who said the contract will almost double the LRV fleet and improve vehicle reliability. “These trains will run about 50,000 miles before they ever even need service,” Supervisor Jane Kim said, referencing staff projections included with the contract authorization. Several supervisors emphasized the contract authorization does not mean the full $1.2 billion is funded on day one — funding will be phased. As Wiener said, “This contract is not fully funded. Nor should it be.”
Supervisor Hollis recalled past procurement problems and urged the SFMTA and city to adopt higher performance and reliability standards; other supervisors signaled support for continued oversight of the procurement and for aligning the purchase schedule with capital budgets.
Action: the board adopted the authorization to enter a contract with Siemens for up to 260 LRVs and related services, with the understanding that the city will fund purchases over time and will need further budget approvals to execute vehicle orders.
Why it matters: Muni’s light‑rail fleet has been a persistent operational problem; doubling fleet size and improving vehicle reliability are central to restoring service levels. The contract clears a procurement pathway that SFMTA officials said will be executed in phases as funding becomes available.
What to watch for: SFMTA will return with specific procurement orders and budget actions required to place vehicle orders and integrate new cars into service. Supervisors and the public will likely scrutinize delivery schedules, performance warranties and maintenance commitments.
